The shortfalls of control frameworks particularly in relation to application to 'fast-track' on a building project

Essay by rtistikUniversity, Bachelor'sA, June 2006

download word file, 7 pages 5.0

On any construction project, time and budget are usually of paramount importance. As a result, many construction companies have sought after a method that can ensure a faster end product development, which commonly focuses on product cycle time reduction through concurrent development. The increasing preference of project managers to "fast-track" has demonstrated that the popularity of this delivery method is warranted. Fast-Tracking has proven to have a greater potential to impact the project development/design processes. One significant problem with fast-tracking concurrent construction lies with increased levels of uncertainty. If we examine the design and construction processes closely, we can see that these uncertainties make the construction dynamic and unstable, mostly through creating non value-adding changes in processes in construction, which ultimately leads to disruption. Control Frameworks in relation to fast-tracking is generally associated with the capability to adapt to change, or uncertainty. It is very difficult to adjust to these changes, especially on a fast-tracking project, as the allowance both minor and major changes are extremely limited.

The control framework on a project can be defined through the use of different models within the construction cycle which considers feasibility, concept, documentation, pre-implementation and implementation in order develop the key objectives for the project.

In short, fast-tracking in "design as you go". Fast-tracking is used generally on design and construct projects. The general idea is that the construction process begins before design documentations and drawings are completed. Construction should occur concurrently or ahead of the design, which should allow the project to finish on or ahead of programme. This is contrasting to a project which does not involve design and construct, where the general flow of work is linear. As mentioned above, the control framework can be defined within the construction cycle, or project lifecycle. The project lifecycle...